Do you know what antioxidants are?
Do you know what phytonutrients are?
An antioxidant is a substance that protects the body from free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that are produced in our bodies as a result of being exposed to toxins through pollution, for example. They can also form through everyday metabolic processes as well as exercise. Over time free radicals can cause cell damage which can lead to health issues such as cancer and heart disease. Cell damage can also lead to premature aging.
Fruits & vegetables contain the antioxidants we need to fight the free radicals, therefore, helping to keep us healthy.
Both fruits & vegetables contain what are known as phytonutrients, which are what gives the fruit or vegetable its color and flavor as well as specific health benefits. For example, blackberries have a deep purple color which come from anthocyanins, a type of phytonutrient. Anthocyanins have anticancer properties and help support healthy aging.
Fruits such as berries are extremely versatile. Not only can you put them in smoothies, you can also add them to salads, yogurts, cereal, and muffins…I mean the possibilities are endless!
So, if you love berries like me, then you’ll love this post. If you don’t eat berries yet, this post will give you good reason to start adding them to your diet today!
Here are 7 types of berries along with their health benefits:
ELDERBERRIES
Can help with:
- lung congestion
- boosting immunity
- detoxing
BLACKBERRIES
Can help with:
- skin damage from sun exposure
- removing toxins from the gut
- growth of cancer cells
- high blood pressure
- protection from heart disease
- maintaining a healthy gut
- preventing inflammation
RASPBERRIES
Can help with:
- inhibit certain cancers
- regular bowel
- regulating blood sugar levels
- stimulating metabolism
- suppressing fat absorption
CRANBERRIES
Can help with:
- urinary tract infections
- plaque buildup
- receding gums
- heavy periods
- upset stomach
- sore throat
- laryngitis
- diarrhea
- ulcers
- protection against heart disease
BLUEBERRIES
Can help with:
- improving eyesight
- keeping prostate healthy
- maintaining a healthy gut
- improving memory
- urinary tract infections
GOJI BERRIES
Can help with:
- getting a good night’s sleep
- heart health
- enhancing memory
- inflammatory diseases, like arthritis
- sore muscles
- eye health
- boosting immunity
STRAWBERRIES
Can help with:
- upset stomach
- artherosclerosis
- neutralizing cancer causing chemicals in the body
- indigestion
Now, for some homemade strawberry chia jam, yum! Feel free to substitute the strawberries for other berries to mix it up!
Homemade Strawberry Chia Jam
This recipe makes 3 cups.
What you’ll need:
- 2 cups of fresh or frozen strawberries
- 1 cup water
- 3/4 cup of chia seeds
Directions:
- If using fresh strawberries, cut the stems off.
- Blend the water and strawberries together in a high speed blender until smooth.
- Transfer the mixture to a medium mixing bowl. Add in the chia seeds and stir until they are well incorporated. Or you can transfer the mixture evenly between two mason jars, place half the chia seeds in one jar and the other half in the other jar, place the lids on tight and shake vigorously to mix in the chia seeds.
- Refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight, then enjoy on toast, pancakes, french toast, whatever your heart desires!
- Feel free to add in more chia seeds if you desire a thicker consistency.
Store jam in the refrigerator in an airtight container for about 3 weeks.
Leave a Reply